USDA APHIS VETERINARY SERVICES STRATEGY & POLICY

PROTOCOL FOR THE IMPORTATION OF ELEPHANTS,HIPPOPOTAMI,

RHINOCEROSES, AND TAPIRS

March 2021 

1 

This protocol describes the conditions required to import elephants, hippos, rhinos, and tapirs, 

according to regulations found in 9 CFR Part 93.

1. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS (these apply unless an animal is exempt; see Section 5 for 

details):

1.1 The importer must obtain an import permit from: 

USDA APHIS Veterinary Services 

Strategy & Policy, 

Unit 39, 4700 River Road 

Riverdale, MD 20737-1231 

Telephone: (301) 851-3300, Option 2 

Fax: (301) 734-4704

The import permit application (VS Form 17-129) and instructions for submission can be

found on our website. The import of these species is complex and may take several 

months to finalize the details before a permit is issued.

1.2 Permits for the importation of elephants, hippos, rhinos, and tapirs are valid for 14 

days from the proposed date of presentation for entry to the United States, and only at 

the port specified in the permit. 

1.3 A Customs Declaration (VS Form 17-29) must also be provided to Customs and Border 

Protection (CBP) officials at the time the animals arrive in the United States. The VS 

Form 17-29 may be obtained from CBP at the time of arrival, or can be downloaded from: 

USDA APHIS | VS Forms. 

1.4 An official health certificate is required (see Addendum III for a model health 

certificate). The official health certificate must be issued by a veterinarian designated by

the national veterinary service of the exporting country, and must be endorsed by an official

veterinarian employed by national veterinary services of the exporting country, attesting to 

the certifications and any required in this protocol.

1.5 The official health certificate must include:

1.5.1 Name and address of the importer. 

1.5.2 The name and address of the consignor and consignee.

1.5.3 Species, breed, purpose of the importation, and number of animals to be imported.

1.5.4 Individual identification, which includes the eartag number, transponder/ 

microchip number, and any other identification present on the animal, including

registration number and brands:

1.5.5 Description of the animals, including age in months, sex, breed, and markings.
USDA APHIS VETERINARY SERVICES STRATEGY & POLICY

PROTOCOL FOR THE IMPORTATION OF ELEPHANTS,HIPPOPOTAMI,

RHINOCEROSES, AND TAPIRS

March 2021 

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1.5.6 Address or other means of identifying country, the premises of origin and any 

otherpremises where the animal resided immediately prior to export.

1.5.7 Name and address of the exporter.

1.5.8 Port of embarkation in the exporting country, and port of entry in the United 

States. 

1.5.9 Official seals applied to the transport vehicle(s) and/ or shipping crates.

2. CERTIFICATION STATEMENTS: The following statements must be included on the health

certificate. 

2.1 The animals were inspected by the individual issuing the health certificate and found free 

of any ectoparasites not more than 72 hours before being loaded on the means of

conveyance which transported the animals to the United States. 

2.2 The animals were healthy, were not known to have been exposed to any infectious 

diseases during the preceding 60 days and were found fit to travel.

2.3 The animals were treated for ectoparasites at least 3 days, but not more than 14 days,

before being loaded on the conveyance transporting the animals to the United States.

The animals have been treated under the direct supervision of the veterinarian signing 

the health certificate, by being thoroughly wetted with a pesticide applied with either a 

sprayer with a hand-held nozzle, a spray-dip machine, or a dip vat. 

2.4 After being treated for ectoparasites according to section 2.2, the animals did not have 

physical contact with or share a pen or bedding materials with any elephant, 

hippopotamus, rhinoceros, or tapir not in the same shipment to the United States. 

2.5 The name and concentration of the pesticide used to treat the animal (such pesticide and

the concentration used must be adequate to kill the types of ectoparasites likely to infest 

the animal to be imported). A list of recommended pesticides and concentrations may be

obtained from the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services,

Strategy & Policy, 4700 River Road Unit 38, Riverdale, Maryland 20737–1231. 

3. PORT OF ENTRY INSPECTION: Elephants, hippos, rhinos, or tapirs for U.S. entry must be 

presented to the port of entry by appointment and accompanied by a health certificate and 

import permit. The port veterinarian shall conduct a visual health examination of the animals

and assess the accuracy of the health certificate.

3.1 Elephants, hippopotami, rhinoceroses, or tapirs may only be imported into the United 

States: 

3.1.1 Through the major ports of entry at Los Angeles, California; Miami, Florida;
USDA APHIS VETERINARY SERVICES STRATEGY & POLICY

PROTOCOL FOR THE IMPORTATION OF ELEPHANTS,HIPPOPOTAMI,

RHINOCEROSES, AND TAPIRS

March 2021

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Newburgh, New York.

3.1.2 OR on a case-by-case basis, at another port of entry (See Addendum I for details):

3.1.2.1 The animals will be inspected and treated at a facility provided by the

importer.

3.1.2.2 USDA APHIS has determined that the importer's facility is adequate for

inspection, treatment, and incineration required under this section.

3.1.2.3 APHIS has determined that an inspector is available to perform at the 

importer's facility the services that are required under this section.

3.1.2.4 APHIS has determined that an inspector is available to perform at the port 

of entry the services that are required under this section if the animals will 

be inspected and treated at a facility providedby the importer.

3.2 If the animal is to be moved from the port of entry to a facility provided by the importer:

3.2.1 The animals shall be subject to as much inspection by aninspector at the port of 

entry as is feasible.

3.2.1.1 As much hay, straw, feed, bedding, and other materialas can feasibly be 

removed from the shipping crate or vehicle containing the animal shall 

be removed, sealed in plastic bags, and incinerated by the importer under

the supervision of an inspector; it must be sealed by an inspector with an

official seal of the United States Department of Agriculture:

3.2.1.2 If the animal is moved from the port of entry in a shipping crate, plastic

wrap must be fastened around the shipping crate up to a level of at least 2 

feet so that all animal waste, hay, straw, feed, bedding, and other 

material accompanying the animal are retained inside the crate, but not 

so as to interfere with ventilation, feeding, and watering of the animal;

3.2.1.3 The crates, or openings of the crates should be covered by light mesh or 

fine webbing to contain debris within the crates, but not interfere with 

overall air circulation for the animals. 

3.2.2 A written contingency plan is required and must be approved before a permit will 

be issued.

3.2.3 After the arrival of the animal at the facility provided by the importer, the seal

shall be broken by a USDA APHIS veterinary medical officer.

3.3 If any animal is dead, or if there are any signs of communicable disease or other illness, or 

injury, the Import-Export Coordinators (IECs) for the relevant region should be notified 

immediately. The IECs will consult with Strategy & Policy, Live Animal Imports regarding 

additional movement options. 
USDA APHIS VETERINARY SERVICES STRATEGY & POLICY

PROTOCOL FOR THE IMPORTATION OF ELEPHANTS,HIPPOPOTAMI,

RHINOCEROSES, AND TAPIRS

March 2021

4

3.4 The animals will be inspected by an inspector within 24 hours of being unloaded at the 

portof entry or at a facility provided by the importer and shall be treated under the 

supervision of an inspector.

3.4.1 This timeline will be modified as needed based on the post-entry condition of the 

animals and assessment by the destination facility veterinary and animal care 

specialists.

3.4.2 The animals must be completely removed from the shipping crates, placed on a

concrete or other nonporous surface, and physically inspected for ectoparasites 

by an inspector.

3.4.2.1 A shift or transfer crate can be used for inspection purposes if it has 

been sufficiently modified to allow all quarters, head, rump and 

ventrum of the animals to be clearly viewed and subsequently treated 

for tick mitigation.

3.4.2.2 Otherwise a chute, or similar arrangement may be used for this process.

3.4.3 If inspection and treatment are not performed when the animals are unloaded, 

they must be isolated in a facility with a nonporous floor, where any ectoparasites 

that maydrop off the animal can be contained and destroyed, until the animals

have been inspected and treated;

3.4.4 Any animals not treated with the import group must be isolated from all other 

animals, until inspections and treatments are completed.

3.4.5 Sedation may be required for the inspection. The importer should provide an 

attending veterinarian specialist to assist with any sedation procedures. All 

surfaces of the animal should be examined. ears, nose, lips, skin folds (axillary, 

inguinal, etc.) and other areas such as under the tail should be included in the 

inspection as much as possible. 

3.4.6 If the APHIS VMO finds no ectoparasites, the animals will be sprayed or dipped 

one time following the labelled instructions with a permitted dip listed in 9 CFR 

72.13(b).

3.4.7 If the inspector finds ectoparasites, the animals will be sprayed or dipped in

accordance with labelled instructions if the permitted dip listed in 9 CFR 

72.13(b) for as many times as necessary until the inspector finds no ectoparasites;

the animals will be sprayed or dipped one additional time after they are found 

free of ticks.

3.4.8 Any ectoparasites that are detected should be collected and preserved in ethyl 

alcohol or formaldehyde for identification. Samples should be submitted to the 

National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, IA using a VS Form 10-4. 

The APHIS VMO should also inform the Regional Import-Export Coordinators 
USDA APHIS VETERINARY SERVICES STRATEGY & POLICY

PROTOCOL FOR THE IMPORTATION OF ELEPHANTS,HIPPOPOTAMI,

RHINOCEROSES, AND TAPIRS

March 2021 

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of any ectoparasite detections, who will convey the information to Strategy & 

Policy, Live Animal Imports. 

3.5 All hay, straw, feed, bedding, and other material that has been placed with the animal at 

any time prior to the final treatment and any plastic sheet used to wrap any shipping 

crate, shall besealed in plastic bags and incinerated under the supervision of an APHIS

inspector;

3.6 Any shipping crate shall be, under the supervision of an inspector, either cleaned and

disinfected or incinerated; and if the shipping crate is cleaned and disinfected, it shall 

then be treated under the supervision of an inspector with a permitted dip.

3.7 Any means of conveyance used to transport an animal not in a shipping crate shall be, 

under thesupervision of an inspector, cleaned and disinfected.

4. ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES

Please check the animal health regulations of the importing state of destination for possible 

additional regulations and requirements for the proposed import (State Regulations and Import

Requirements). 

5. ANIMALS REFUSED ENTRY: 

Any elephant, hippopotamus, rhinoceros, or tapir refused entry into the United States for

noncompliance with the requirements of this part shall be removed from the United States

within a time period specified by the USDA APHIS or shall be considered abandoned by the

importer, and pending removal or abandonment, the animal shall be subject to such

safeguardsas the inspector determines necessary to prevent the possible introduction of 

ectoparasites intothe United States. If such animal is not removed from the United States 

within such time period or is abandoned, it may be seized, destroyed, or otherwise disposed 

of as the USDA APHIS determines necessary to prevent the possible introduction of 

ectoparasites into the United States.

6. OTHER IMPORTATIONS: 

6.1 Elephants, hippopotami, rhinoceroses, or tapir are exempt from the regulations in this 

part under the following circumstances* (regulatory requirements for a health certificate, 

import permit, declaration, port of entry inspection or ectoparasiticide treatments): 

6.1.1 They are imported from Canada and are accompanied by a document signed by a 

salaried veterinarian of the Canadian Government that states:

6.1.1.1 They were not imported into Canada during the year preceding their

importation into the United States; and
USDA APHIS VETERINARY SERVICES STRATEGY & POLICY

PROTOCOL FOR THE IMPORTATION OF ELEPHANTS,HIPPOPOTAMI,

RHINOCEROSES, AND TAPIRS

March 2021 

6 

6.1.1.2 They did not, during the year preceding their importation into the 

United States, have physical contact with or share a pen or bedding

materials with any elephant, hippopotamus, rhinoceros, or tapir 

imported into Canada during that year; or

6.1.2 They were exported into Canada from the United States and then imported back

into the United States accompanied by a United States health certificate.

*See Table 1: Exempt Movement from Canada

6.2 USDA APHIS may allow the importation and entry of elephants, hippopotami,

rhinoceroses, or tapirs into the United States in specific cases that deviate from the

requirements outlined in this document. In those instances, AHIS will dictate conditions

essential to prevent the introduction of ectoparasites into the United States. 
USDA APHIS VETERINARY SERVICES STRATEGY & POLICY

PROTOCOL FOR THE IMPORTATION OF ELEPHANTS, HIPPOPOTAMI,

RHINOCEROSES, AND TAPIRS

March 2021

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Table 1: Exempt Movement from Canada

Category Residency Route Permit, 

Port of 

Entry 

Inspection

Healthcertificate Otherinformation CITES

permit

U.S.-origin

returning

< 60 days Land NO Original U.S. health 

certificate,otherwise

exempt

YES

Air,

Sea

NO Original U.S.

health certificate,

otherwise exempt

Contact APHIS at

least two weeks in

advance

YES

U.S. origin > 60 days Land NO Canadianhealth

certificate,

otherwise exempt

YES

Air,

Sea

NO Canadianhealth

certificate,

otherwise exempt

Contact APHIS at

least two weeks in

advance

YES

Canadian

origin

Entire life Land NO Exempt Must have CFIA

document*

YES

Air,

Sea

NO Exempt • Must have CFIA

document*

• Contact APHIS

at leasttwo weeks

in

advance

YES

Other country

origin

> 1 year Land NO Exempt Must have CFIA

document*

YES

Other country

origin

> 1 year Air,

Sea

NO Exempt • Must have CFIA

document*

• Contact APHIS

at least two

weeksin

advance

YES

Other country

origin

< 1 year Land,

Air,

Sea

YES Not Exempt Must followprotocol 

as written

YES

Non-specific

history/ no

documentationof 

origin and/

or residency

< 1 year Land,

Air,

Sea

YES Not Exempt Must followprotocol 

as written

YES

*The animals are imported from Canada and are accompanied by a document signed by a veterinarian of

the Canadian Food Inspection Agency stating: The animals were imported into Canada from a country 

other than the United States and have resided continuously for more than one year in Canada since that 

time, preceding their exportation to the United States; AND the animal(s) did not, during the year 

preceding their exportation into the United States, have physical contact with or share a pen or bedding 

materials with any non-US-origin elephant, hippo,rhino, ortapirimportedinto Canadaduring thatyear.
Page 1 of 2

This health certificate is valid for 30 days from issue

Veterinary Health Certificate for Export of Elephants, Hippopotami, Rhinoceroses, 

and Tapirs From ______________________________________________________

to the United States of America

National Veterinary Authority Date of Issue Certificate Number

CERTIFICATION:

The animal(s) described below have been inspected and/or tested for the relevant diseases specified on the USDA-APHIS, VS Live Animal Imports website, and 

conform the current veterinary requirements of the United States.

1. Name and Address of Exporter/Shipper: 2. Name and Address of Importer:

3. Name and Address of Consignor (if different from exporter): 4. Name and Address of Consignee (if different from importer):

5. Address of Origin for Animal(s) (if different from exporter) 6. Address of Final Destination (if different from importer):

7. Address(es) of Other Locations of Residence for Animal(s) Immediately Before Importation:

8. Country of Origin: 9. US State of Destination:

10. Port/Airport of Embarkation 11. US Port/Airport of Entry

12. Means of Transport: 13. Date of Shipment:

14. Total Quantity of Animals: 15. Total Number of Packages/Containers:

16. Container/ Transport Crate Numbers:

17. Intended Use of Animal(s): 18. Official Transportation Seal Numbers:

19. Identification of Animal(s):

Species/

Breed

Age

(Months)

Sex Transponder/ID

Tag Number

Description/ Other 

Identification
Page 2 of 2

This health certificate is valid for 30 days from issue

Veterinary Health Certificate for Export of Elephants, Hippopotami, Rhinoceroses, 

and Tapirs From ______________________________________________________

to the United States of America

National Veterinary Authority Date of Issue Certificate Number

Certification Statements:

II. Health Information

I , the undersigned, certify that the animal(s) described above meet the following requirements:

1. The animal(s) were healthy, were not known to have been exposed to any infectious diseases during 

the preceding 60 days and were found fit to travel. 

2. On _______________________ (date), being not more than 72 hours prior to loading for export, I

examined said animal(s) and found them to be free from clinical signs or symptoms of infectious or 

contagious disease, including infestation with ectoparasites and are in my opinion fit for the intended 

journey.

3. On _______________________ (date), being at least 72 hours, but not more than 14 days prior to loading, 

all body surfaces of said animal(s) were treated under my supervision for the removal of ectoparasites, 

by being thoroughly wetted with a pesticide applied with either a sprayer with a hand-held nozzle, a 

spray-dip machine, or a dip vat using the following licensed product at concentrations required to kill 

ectoparasites based on the product’s instructions:

• A list of recommended pesticides and concentrations may be obtained from the Animal and 

Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services, Strategy & Policy, 4700 River Road 

Unit 38, Riverdale, Maryland 20737–1231

Name of Product

Active Ingredient(s)

Concentration Used

4. The animal(s) for export, after being treated as in statement II.2 above, did not come into physical 

contact or share a pen or bedding with any other animals apart from those similarly treated for the same 

consignment to the USA.

5. I have received a written declaration from the owner/exporter that the crates and vehicles for transport will 

be thoroughly cleansed and disinfected with an approved disinfectant prior to loading.

III. This certificate is valid for 30 days from the date of signature.

Accredited or Approved Veterinarian

(This section is not needed if the certificate is issued by an 

Official Government Veterinarian):

Official Government Veterinarian

Signature Signature

Printed Name Printed Name

Date Date
Page 1 of 11

ADDENDUM I

PACHYDERM/ TAPIR IMPORT 

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES

March 2021

PURPOSE: This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) document outlines standard operating 

procedures to be followed by USDA/APHIS Riverdale permitting staff, to include the Subject Matter 

Expert (SME) Staff Officer and Collateral Ports Director or Animal Import Center (AIC) Veterinarian in 

Charge (VIC) for the preliminary permitting process of importing elephants, hippos, rhinos and tapirs, 

hereafter referred to as pachyderms/ tapirs. The SOP also includes the involvement of appropriate field 

personnel, including Field Operations (FiOps) VICs and/or Service Center VICs. 

OUTLINE:

1.1 Summary of SOP

1.2 Initial Permit Application Review, including Written Contingency Plan for Movement from 

Port of Entry/ Arrival to Destination Facility

1.3 Communication with AIC VIC or Collateral Ports Director Prior to Permit Issuance

1.4 Completion/Review of Operational Plan

1.5 Inspection of Destination Facility Quarantine Location

1.6 Distribution of Permit

1.7 Activation of Field Activities

1.8 Assessment of User Fees

REFERENCES: 

9CFR Part 93, Title 9 Part 93 Subpart H - Code of Federal Regulations (ecfr.io)

PROCEDURES:

1.1 Summary of Protocol

USDA APHIS VS regulated pachyderms/ tapirs imported into the United States require an import 

permit issued by Live Animal Import (LAI) staff and are required to undergo inspection, quarantine 

and tick mitigation treatment at an Animal Import Center (AIC) in Los Angeles, CA; Miami, FL; or 

Newburgh, NY; or on a case-by-case basis at non approved Port of Entry (POE) only with written 

approval by APHIS Strategy & Policy (S&P). 

USDA APHIS Animal Import Centers do not have the equipment or uniquely trained personnel to 

manage these animals on site. Unloading, physical inspection and tick mitigation in an APHIS VS 

approved isolation area is arranged at the destination facility. 

All inquiries for import of elephants, hippos, rhinos, and tapirs, (pachyderms/ tapirs) are to be 

directed to Live Animal Import (LAI) staff in Riverdale. LAI staff will inform the importer of the 

steps to obtain an import permit. When the importer requests to bring pachyderms/ tapirs into a port 

of entry (POE) other than New York, Los Angles, or Miami, the LAI staff will provide the importer 

with the Alternate Port Operational Plan Questionnaire (Appendix A). The importer will then 
Page 2 of 11

submit this for review, along with a detailed written Operational Plan for moving the animals from 

the port to the destination facility under APHIS oversight.

Once the Operational Plan is approved, a field VMO will inspect the proposed quarantine facility 

using the Inspection Checklist for Pachyderm/ Tapir Quarantine Facilities (Appendix B). The field 

VMO completes the checklist and submits it to the LAI Staff with comments and any 

recommendations. 

LAI Staff either coordinates import with appropriate AIC, or in the case of an alternate POE,

receives an approved Operational Plan by the Collateral Ports VIC. The completed checklist and 

facility approval, with the reviewed and accepted contingency plan are required before the LAI staff 

SME will issue the import permit.

1.2 Initial Permit Application Review

1.2.1 Riverdale receives permit application from importer

1.2.2 Gatekeeper triages and prioritizes import permits as they are received, then forwards the 

permit application to a Veterinary Program Examiner (VPE).

1.2.3 VPE assesses the application:

1.2.3.1 Reviews completeness of application.

1.2.3.2 Confirms proposed shipping and arrival dates.

1.2.3.3 Identifies Port of Entry (POE)

1.2.3.3.1 If POE is New York, Los Angeles, or Miami, the VPE annotates “Port 

Coverage Confirmed.”

1.2.3.3.2 If POE is not one of these ports, the VPE contacts the Collateral Ports 

VIC for Port Services availability.

1.3 Communication with AIC VI or Collateral Ports VIC Prior to Permit Issuance

1.3.1 Riverdale LAI staff contacts AIC Director when importer plans to import the animal(s) 

through New York, Los Angeles, or Miami: go to section 1.6.

1.3.2 LAI staff contacts Collateral Ports VIC (or Acting) when importer requests to import 

pachyderms/ tapirs through an alternate port of entry and provides the following information:

1.3.2.1 Proposed Port of Entry

1.3.2.2 Proposed date, time, and flight number

1.3.2.3 Importer’s name and contact information

1.3.2.4 Relevant communications with importer

1.3.2.5 VPE or Staff Officer contacts Collateral Ports VIC if import is re-routed, canceled,

or terminated for any reason.

1.4 Completion and Review of Operational Plan

1.4.1 LAI staff provides the Operational Plan Questionnaire (Appendix A) to importer.

1.4.2 The importer submits the Operational Plan for an alternate port of entry to LAI staff.

1.4.3 LAI staff forwards the Operational Plan to Collateral Ports VIC (or Acting). 

1.4.4 Collateral Ports VIC reviews and informs LAI staff of approval, approval with conditions or 

rejection within 14 days, or provides an alternative completion date.
Page 3 of 11

1.5 Inspection of Quarantine Location

1.5.1 When the Operational plan is approved, Collateral Ports VIC contacts appropriate FiOps 

VICs. 

1.5.1.1 A Veterinary Medical Officer (VMO) is assigned as the Port VMO to cover airport 

activities and a field VMO is assigned to inspect the proposed quarantine facility. 

Depending on vicinity of the destination facility to airport these may be the same or 

different VMO.

1.5.1.2 The VMO inspector is given the Inspection Checklist for Pachyderm/ Tapir

Quarantine Facilities (Appendix B).

1.5.1.3 VMO liaisons will contact importer/destination facility and schedules the quarantine 

location inspection.

1.5.1.4 After the inspection, VMO submits the signed checklist and any recommendations to 

the LAI Staff Officer for approval.

1.5.2 LAI and port staff will review and approve the written contingency plans.

1.5.3 Once the destination facility quarantine area and the contingency plans are approved, the 

Collateral Ports VIC (or Acting) confirms availability of staff and communicates with 

Riverdale to allow issuance of permit.

1.5.3.1 The Collateral Ports VIC (or Acting) identifies VMO or contacts Field Manager 

(FiOps or Service Center VIC) to assign a VMO to perform the live animal 

import/documentation inspection at POE. 

1.5.3.2 Collateral Ports VIC (or Acting) notifies all parties if pachyderm/ tapir animal import 

is cancelled or terminated for any reason.

1.5.4 Staff VMO (SME) finalizes and issues permit

1.5.4.1 Verifies Port Services coverage via information from VPE.

1.5.4.2 Communicates with importer as needed to clarify information/plan.

1.5.4.3 Provides feedback and instruction as necessary for completion and accuracy of 

paperwork, asks for corrections if needed.

1.5.4.4 Permit and contingency plan are issued and distributed.

1.6 Distribution of Permit

1.6.1 Staff distributes permit and contingency plan to appropriate AIC Director or Collateral 

Ports VIC (or Acting).

1.6.2 For an approved alternate POE, the Collateral Ports VIC (or Acting) verifies that VMO

import inspector has received the permit.

1.6.3 If POE is an AIC, permit will automatically route to shared AIC inbox.

1.7 Activation of Field Activities

1.7.1 Refer to Protocol for Importation of Elephants, Hippos, Rhinos and Tapirs. A separate 

Appendix C could be created for the field SOP activity/inspection of the animal etc. 

1.8 Assessment of User Fees

1.8.1 Staff collects user fee amount: $150 permit application fee.

1.8.2 Permit examiner informs importer user fee charges to be collected for completion of 

destination facility inspection (hourly rate) and time at POE. Additionally, Staff informs 
Page 4 of 11

importer of potential overtime charges if import occurs outside of normal business 

hours. 
Page 5 of 11

Appendix A: Operational Plan Questionaiire 

for Use of Alternate Port of Entry (POE) for Pachyderm/ Tapir Imports 

1. Written justification as to why an approved port of entry is not being used. 

1.1 (e.g. The animals to be imported would suffer undue hardship if required to be imported 

through a currently approved port of entry; longer flight time to approved POEs; long 

travel distance from approved POEs to destination facility, etc.).

1.2 Alternate port of entry has equivalent facilities for APHIS staffing, unloading, and 

moving the animals.

2. Port of Entry (POE) Information:

2.1 Contact information for port.

2.2 Written statement of approval from port authority to allow import.

2.3 Concurrence from CBP to allow our VS personnel to receive badging credentials or 

escorts to be provided, plan for access of VS personnel.

3. Location of destination facility where unloading, isolation and tick mitigation treatment will 

occur & contact information: 

3.1 Details for area, include dimensions, schematics, etc. – Appendix B.

3.2 The facilities must be equipped for unloading, inspection, tick mitigation treatment, with 

an impervious floor and use for short-term isolation as needed until inspection/ tick 

mitigation is completed. 

3.3 The facilities for these animals must meet all Animal Welfare guidelines for these 

species.

4. Date/time of each proposed shipment.

5. Estimated travel time & distance from port of entry to destination facility unloading and 

isolation/ treatment area with detailed written contingency plans for potential emergencies 

submitted and approved in advance. 

6. Description of how animals will be moved from port of entry to the destination facility (transfer 

box, temperature-controlled refrigeration truck, etc.):

6.1 Schematics of port facilities and proposed methods of parking vehicles, biosecurity 

measures to be put in place at port and contract vendors for C/D.

6.2 State Animal Health Officials notification and approval.

7. Signalment of animals to be imported (species, breed, number of animals, weight range, animal 

identification, age).

8. Name of Accredited destination facility/ Zoo Veterinarian and contact information.
Page 6 of 11

Appendix B: Destination Facility Inspection Checklist for 

for Pachyderm/ Tapir Imports 

Date _______________________________ 

Name of Facility ___________________________________________________

Street Address ______________________________________________________________

Mailing Address (if different) __________________________________________________

City _________________________________________________

State, Zip Code ________________________________________

Facility Owner/Operator ______________________________________________________

Phone _______________________________ Fax _________________________________

Email ______________________________________________________________________ 

Inspecting USDA APHIS VS Veterinarian ________________________________________

Office ______________________________________________________________________

Inspection Type: 

Initial ________

Re-inspection _________ 
Page 7 of 11

VS Staff Availability

 The Director has sufficient VS personnel, including one or more VS veterinarians and other 

professional, technical, and support personnel, to provide inspection or review services to ensure 

the biological and physical security of the facility for any import of exotic animals (elephants, 

rhinos, hippos and tapirs).

Physical Plant Requirements for Importation of Exotic Animals (elephants, rhinos, hippos, 

tapirs): Facilities for unloading, inspection, tick treatment and possible temporary isolation.

Location (attach photographs and supporting documents as appropriate):

 The owner or operator has provided the specific route for movement from the port of entry to the 

site.

 Written contingency plans have been developed and submitted to S&P for emergencies, security 

arrangements. 

 Notes: _________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

Construction (attach photographs and supporting documents as appropriate):

 The facility is designed to prevent the escape of the isolated animals and is maintained in good 

repair.

 The facility has separate loading docks for receiving and loading animals and for general use, or 

the docks are cleaned and disinfected after each use and a log of this activity is maintained.

 The facility has adequate storage for supplies and equipment needed for isolation sanitation, 

waste disposal and tick mitigation of the imported exotic animals.

 The facility has adequate examination space for safe restraint, treatment, and sample collection.

 Feed and bedding are stored in a separate area to prevent contamination.

 Secure, separate storage is provided for pesticides and for medical or biological supplies.

 The facility contains work areas for repairing equipment and for cleaning and disinfecting

equipment used in the facility, including cleaning, disinfection, and treatment of the transport 

crate, if it is not incinerated.

 Adequate provision is made for shelter from the elements and environmental extremes (e.g., to 

prevent hypothermia, hyperthermia, or excessive dehydration) of the isolated exotic animals 

(consistent with Animal Welfare guidelines for these species).

 Adequate equipment is maintained for feeding and watering in the isolation area. 

 The isolation area is in a secure and self-contained building.
Page 8 of 11

 Drainage adequate, sufficient to keep area dry and free of standing water.

 Surfaces in the isolation area are impervious can be readily cleaned and disinfected.

 The flooring is nonporous, where any ectoparasites dropping off the animal(s) can be contained 

and destroyed, until inspection and tick treatment of the animals is finalized. 

 Lighting is adequate throughout the facility to visually inspect the animals.

 Notes: _________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

Sanitation (attach photographs and supporting documents as appropriate):

 The facility has adequate equipment and supplies to be maintained in a clean and sanitary 

condition and to control pests.

 The facility has a stock of disinfectant (authorized in 9 CFR 71.10a) (S)) sufficient to disinfect

the entire facility. These must be tuberculocidal products effective for C&D..

 The facility has a stock of the permitted dip (as listed in 9 CFR 72. (or as approved by S&P in 

advance of the arrival of this import) for tick mitigation or has contacted suppliers for the order 

of this product to be on site for the treatment of the arriving animals. Please note the only 

approved product at this time is Coumaphos. 

 The facility has an adequate supply of potable water for watering and cleaning.

 The facility has a 24-hour emergency supply of water for the exotic animals (elephants, rhinos, 

hippos, tapirs) in isolation adequate to meet the biological needs of the animals, factoring in 

climatic conditions.

 The facility can adequately dispose of waste including manure, urine, and bedding by 

incineration during isolation; or has the capacity to adequately maintain such wastes until the 

isolation is completed and animals are released for entry (after which wastes may be disposed of 

as domestic waste). 

 If incineration is not completed on the premises, a written plan for appropriate waste disposal is 

needed, including the waste management company contracted for this procedure.

 The waste materials are managed to minimize spoilage and attraction of pests.

 The facility can control surface drainage and effluent into, within, and from the facility to

prevent the spread of disease.

 Notes: _________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________
Page 9 of 11

Security (attach photographs and supporting documents as appropriate):

 The facilities and premises can be kept locked and secure when exotic animals (elephants, rhinos, 

hippos, tapirs) are in isolation.

 The facility displays easily visible signs at all entrances designating itas a restricted isolation area

prohibiting entry of visitors or other unauthorized personnel.

 The facility operator has given VS a telephone number that may be used at any time.

 The facility operator understands VS is authorized to place seals on entrances or exits to 

ensure security.

 Notes: _________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

Personnel (attach photographs and supporting documents as appropriate)

 The operator can provide adequate personnel to maintain the facility and properly care for and

feed the animals (elephants, rhinos, hippos, tapirs) in isolation. Holding facilities must meet all 

requirements of the Animal Welfare Act for each species.

 The operator maintains documentation of training provided to personnel, including

animal husbandry, animal welfare, and biosecurity.

 Notes: _________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

Authorized Access:

 The facility operator understands isolation facility access can be granted only to VS 

representatives and other persons VS authorizes to work at the facility.

Sanitary Practices (attach photographs as appropriate):

 Procedures are in place to ensure all equipment is dedicated to the isolation area and is 

cleaned and disinfected before and after use in the isolation area.

 Procedures are in place to ensure all vehicles are cleaned and disinfected before entering or

leaving the isolation area.

 Notes: _________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________
Page 10 of 11

Procedures Are in Place to Ensure That All Persons Granted Access to the Isolation Area (attach 

photographs and supporting documents as appropriate):

 Wear clean, protective work clothing and footwear on entering the isolation area. 

 Wear disposable gloves when handling sick animals.

 Change protective clothing, footwear, and gloves when the items become soiled or contaminated.

 The manual maintained at the facility for standard operating procedures includes biosecurity

precautions applicable to any private veterinarians providing emergency care.

 Notes: _________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

Handling of animals (elephants, rhinos, hippos, tapirs) in Isolation Facilities (attach 

photographs and supporting documents as appropriate):

 Written plan provided for the restraint procedure(s) of the imported exotic animals for VS 

inspection and subsequent tick mitigation. This must include sedation of the animals if needed.

 The animals must be unloaded from the shipping crate for inspection and treatment to an 

acceptable restraint device, chute, modified shift crate with removable sections for viewing the 

animal and effective tick mitigation treatment or similar pre-approved method for effecting these 

procedures. 

 The operator understands any death or suspected illness of the imported exotic animals 

(elephants, rhinos, hippos, and tapirs) must be reported immediately to VS S&P.

 Adequate written procedures are in place regarding the facility's ability to dispose of animals 

that may die while in isolation.

 The operator understands that isolated exotic animals (elephants, rhinos, hippos, tapirs) requiring 

specialized medical attention or necropsy may not be moved to another isolation site unless VS 

authorizes the move.

 Notes: _________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

Additional documentation

 Written contingency plans. 

 Site evaluation by Animal Care reviewing spacing, management and staff training in place for 
Page 11 of 11

addition to animal population. 

 Appropriate licensing and registration (with Animal Care) for broker(s), animal transport.

 USFWS CITES permit.

 Notes: _________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

Approval IDisapproval of Facility

I recommend the facility be: ( ) approved ( ) not approved

Signature _________________________________________________ Date______________

USDA APHIS VS S&P Port Director

.

Signature _________________________________________________ Date______________

USDA APHIS VS S&P Veterinary Medical Officer Inspector

.

.

_________________________________________________________________________________

Print the name of the USDA APHIS Office Location

Acknowledgement of Receipt of Inspection Report

I hereby acknowledge receipt of this inspection report on the below listed date.

_____________________________________________________________ Date _____________

Signature of responsible official Operator at facility

_____________________________________________________________

Title
ADDENDUM II

Contingency Plan Development for Exotic Animal (Elephant, Rhino,Hippo,

Tapirs) Imports to the United States, Minimum Standards

1. All flight details/ route of travel to the U.S., route from airport to the zoo.

2. All Point of Contact persons (POCs), with phone numbers, should be listed.

3. Potential emergencies causing re-routing or last-minute rescheduling of flight (weather,

equipment failure, etc.):

3.1 Emergency contacts (APHIS, other veterinarians, transportspecialists).

3.2 Potential emergency unloading of the animals due to re-routing, illness, injury

or death.

3.3 Crate issues.

3.4 Timing of arrival, unexpected changes:

3.4.1 Emergency contacts (added personnel, supply sources).

3.4.2 Rescheduling personnel and transport vehicles.

3.4.3 Clearing customs (any animal food or hay brought with the

shipment also requiresimport permits).

4. Description of unloading process from plane; unloading of the animals/ movement to transport

vehicles

4.1 Delay of unloading equipment, transport vehicles.

4.2 Equipment failure (unloading/ loading vehicles).

4.3 Delay of scheduled personnel arriving.

4.4 Emergency temporary holding at the airport.

4.5 Animal illness, injury or death at the port of entry.

4.6 Crate issues (make sure extra tarps, heavy-duty plastic wrap and tape is available).

NOTE: Please review the import protocol; crates must be wrapped according to this

protocol. All waste must be collected and incinerated if the wrap must be removed 

and replaced during unloading from the airplane (including the previously used

wrap). The transport crate should be covered in light mesh or fine netting to prevent 

debris from being blown out and not contained as required.

5. Description of loading process onto the trucks, including how crates and transport enclosures

will be secured.

6. Confirmation of who will be accompanying the transport.

7. Movement of animals to destination zoo:

7.1 Planned route of travel: re-fueling stops, alternate route(s) if detours are needed, plans for

delays.

7.2 Delay of transport vehicles.

7.3 Equipment failure/ need to unload and re-load the animals.
7.4 Minimizing transport stressfor the animals, including excessive environmental

temperatures, and need for feed-water-rest breaks.

7.5 Delay of scheduled personnel arriving/ need to rotate personnel.

7.6 Emergency temporary holding for the animals along the route.

7.7 Animal illness, injury or death: contact with trained veterinary/ zoo personnel along the

planned route of travel, if needed (Department, POC, phone numbers).

7.8 Crate issues (make sure extra tarps, heavy-duty plastic wrap and tape is available).

8. Description of the unloading process at the zoo, including contingencies of equipment issues,

personnel changes, animal emergencies.

9. Written animal escape plan.

10. Security

10.1 Protection for the animals along the route

10.2 Plan for potential issues with animal rights activists, including contacting authorities

along the planned route of travel (Department, POC, phone numbers)

11. Written plan provided for the restraint procedure(s) of the imported exotic animals for VS

inspection and subsequent tick mitigation (treatment within the transport crate is insufficientfor

this procedure).

12. Other potential emergency situations should be considered, and plans developed.

13. Management of international waste: this must be incinerated at the destination facility or

arrangements made with a licensed operator to provide these services.

14. Cleaning and disinfection for all equipment, vehicles, transport crate, any restraining equipment

and the holding facilities.